Cupra is one of the fastest-growing car brands in the UK. Only launching in 2018 when the brand officially split from Seat, its sales have almost doubled so far in 2022, and it’s now overtaken well-established brands such as Jaguar and Lexus in the popularity stakes.
The line-up has now expanded to five distinct offerings, including estate cars, hatchbacks and SUVs, and there’s an increasing focus on electrified models, with all but one of its cars available as a hybrid or EV. Let’s take a look at what Cupra has to offer.
Leon e-Hybrid
The Cupra Leon is regarded as one of the best hot hatches on the market, combining style and sportiness into a package that can be used and enjoyed every day of the week. Alongside petrol versions, Cupra also now offers a plug-in e-Hybrid version of the Leon.
Pairing a 1.4-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, it produces 242bhp and 400Nm of torque, allowing for a 0-60mph time of just 6.5 seconds – only a couple of seconds behind a similarly powerful petrol model. Cupra claims it can travel for between 34 and 37 miles on electricity, providing scope for some impressively low running costs if you’re able to charge regularly.
Leon Estate e-Hybrid
If you want a more practical electrified model, you should take a look at the Leon Estate e-Hybrid. Using the same powertrain as the hatchback, Cupra claims up to 217.3mpg, while CO2 emissions of just 29g/km mean the models qualify for low company car tax rates.
The Estate’s boot measures a spacious 470 litres (200 more than the hatchback), while the level of equipment on offer is seriously impressive. Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, a large touchscreen and digital dial display, adaptive cruise control and dynamic chassis control.
Formentor e-Hybrid
The Formentor was Cupra’s first bespoke model and it really helped to open the brand up to a new range of customers. This coupe-styled crossover offers a smart, sporty design and a practical interior that offers plenty of room for family life.
The Formentor is also available as a plug-in hybrid, which uses a broadly similar powertrain to the Leon, though here there are the options of two power outputs – 201bhp or 242bhp. Managing up to 37 miles on electric power, Cupra claims a fuel economy figure of up to 235.4mpg and 27g/km CO2 emissions.
Born
Cupra’s first electric car is the Born – a smartly-styled hatchback that shares plenty in common with the Volkswagen ID.3. Offering a dynamic look, the Born is also one of the best electric cars on the market to drive.
The Born is available with several powertrain and battery options, delivering up to 227bhp, and allowing for a 0-60mph time of 6.4 seconds in its quickest form. With the large 77kWh battery selected, Cupra also claims an impressive range of 340 miles. A practical interior and generous equipment levels solidify the Born as one of the best electric cars on the market.
